Drunk-driving with particular reference to Malta

Abstract

The effects of alcohol are no secret. Alcohol hinders the capacity to exercise self-control, it impairs judgement, and renders the person under influence more susceptible to danger, particularly if such person is behind the steering-wheel. Maltese Law has set several safeguards to ensure that drunk-driving is punished severely, given the grave consequences which may result therefrom. The introduction of the breathalyser test under Maltese Law has served to suppress the inclination to drink and drive to some extent; however, the number of accidents happening every year due to drinking and subsequent driving seem to suggest otherwise. This article goes through the relevant provisions of Chapter 65 of the Laws of Malta, while also making reference to judgments given by the Courts of Malta interpreting such provisions. It attempts to clarify the process as laid out under Maltese Law, illustrated by statistics which serve to prove how effective the law in fact is.